AUGUSTA – State environmental regulators voted Thursday to consider new rules that would further limit the sale of products containing the chemical bisphenol-A, which some research has linked to learning disabilities in children.
The Board of Environmental Protection accepted a citizen initiative signed by hundreds of Maine mothers calling for the state to expand a ban on the chemical that’s used in hardened plastics. Maine already prohibits the sale of sippy cups, baby bottles and other reusable food and beverage packages that contain BPA.
Now the Environmental Health Strategy Center is leading an effort to expand that ban to include infant and toddler food containers.
“BPA is a toxic chemical that harms children,” said Steve Taylor, the center’s program director. “Now it’s clear other alternatives are widely available.”
On Thursday, the Board of Environmental Protection voted to hold a public hearing, tentatively scheduled for Sept. 6, on the proposal.
Some studies indicate that BPA is a hormone disrupter that is linked to cancer, obesity, learning disabilities, male infertility and early puberty in girls.
Staff Writer Susan Cover can be contacted at 621-5643 or at:
scover@mainetoday.com
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